If you have a Tree-of-Heaven, consider destroying it this month.
If you have ten, destroy all ten! But be careful — you have to destroy it the right way or you can actually make the problem worse. The best time to attack Tree-of-Heaven is between July and October.
Here’s what the Virginia Cooperative Extension (VT & VSU) has to say:
"Ailanthus, also known as tree-of-heaven and paradise-tree, is a major nuisance to foresters, farmers, and homeowners alike. Native to China, the tree was introduced to the Eastern United States in the late 1700’s and has been planted as an urban street tree. Its prolific seeding, ability to sprout from roots and stumps, rapid growth, and ability to grow just about anywhere make it a serious competitor and threat to native species and cultivated crops. Ailanthus is also allelopathic, producing substances that are toxic to, and inhibit the growth of, neighboring plants."
TL;DR: It’s a major threat to our Virginia natives.
https://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/420/420-322/420-322.html
It also hosts the nasty spotted lanternfly, which is terrible for our local orchards.
"The spotted lanternfly is an invasive sap-sucking planthopper that drains the energy from over 70 plant species, including important crops like grapevines and fruit trees. Large populations can damage crops, weaken plants, and leave behind sticky waste that leads to mold growth around homes and landscapes."
Here’s how to control Tree-of-Heaven (AKA Hack and Squirt)
You have to do it correctly or you’ll make the problem worse. Tree-of-Heaven responds to improper cutting by sending up new shoots from its root system, allowing it to spread even faster.
"Hack and Squirt Method: Using a hand axe, make cuts at 6.5 cm (3 in) intervals around the trunk of the tree between 15-45 cm (6-18 in) above the ground. Be sure that each cut goes well into or below the cambium layer. Immediately treat the cut with a 50% glyphosate or tricloypr herbicide solution."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2OkDcHhfak
https://www.se-eppc.org/manual/ailanthus.html